Heavy rain batters Kannur; relief measures under way

Torrential rain in Kannur district causes extensive damage, affecting hundreds of families, prompting emergency measures by local authorities.

Torrential rain accompanied by strong winds caused extensive damage across Kannur district, affecting hundreds of families and prompting emergency measures by the local authorities.

According to official figures, as many as 144 houses were partially damaged in the past two days alone, while six houses were completely destroyed. Twelve people sustained injuries. As many as 184 families have been impacted so far.

Severe damage to property was reported in 107 villages. Landslides were reported in Kuppam-Kappanthattu (Pariyaram grama panchayat) and Pulimparamba (Taliparamba grama panchayat). Uprooted trees disrupted traffic in several areas.

Following continued downpour, 14 of the 16 shutters of the Pazhassi dam were opened to regulate rising water levels. The dam recorded 158.6 mm rainfall at 7 a.m. on Monday, with the water level reaching 20 metres by 5 p.m. The maximum permitted level is 27.52 metres. Sources said the dam was being closely monitored and all necessary precautions were in place.

District Collector Arun K. Vijayan has declared a holiday for anganwadis, madrasas, and tuition centres in the district on Tuesday. The leave does not apply to Anganwadi employees.

Meanwhile, the disaster management committee of the Thalassery municipality held an emergency meeting to review the situation. It was decided to use facilities including the stadium pavilion, Brennen Training Centre, municipal town hall, and various school as emergency relief centres.